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CA AB252
Bill
Status
2/2/2026
Primary Sponsor
Jasmeet Bains
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AI Summary
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Requires the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) to maintain year-round "full staffing levels" at all fire stations and facilities by January 1, 2028, defined as the highest combined full-time, part-time, and seasonal firefighting personnel employed in any single month between January 2022 and December 2024
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Establishes a phased implementation schedule: 50% of the required staffing increase by January 1, 2026, and 75% by January 1, 2027
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Mandates annual reports to the Legislature on progress toward staffing goals, emergency response impact, cost analysis, budgetary requirements, and recruitment and retention metrics
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Requires the Legislature to appropriate sufficient funding in the annual Budget Act or other statute to implement these staffing requirements
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Known as the "Stop Laying Off Firefighters Act," addressing the department's current practice of reduced staffing during winter months despite year-round fire risk due to climate change
Legislative Description
Wildfire protection: Department of Forestry and Fire Protection: staffing.
Last Action
From committee: Filed with the Chief Clerk pursuant to Joint Rule 56.
2/2/2026